 |
Welcome Home Soldier.com |
|
|
Welcome Home Soldier.com |
|
From the AP at MSNBC 6 years later, U.S. expands Afghan base Bagram growing after first being envisioned as a temporary home.
Our Covenant. Remy Benoit
He walked the city streets at night all through the late forties. A car backfired, and he hit the ground. It is in the eyes; in the eyes where they have been, what they have seen —Oh, you’re back.
Dau Tieng. Michael Pectol
Getting Out of the Jungle. Harry Kieninger
Harry Kieninger, author of "When Can We Come Home: Understanding the Viet Nam Vet," served for six months as a combat medic at Cu Chi. He offers his advice and experience about how to come home.
Touching Creation. Remy Benoit
Commentary on Absolution. Michael Pectol
Where Did I Go?. Marla
Have you had many days where you felt like you Shattering? Here is one reader's advice a journey to a new self.
Peace Is a Can Do Thing. Remy Benoit
The natural extension of " Life, Liberty, and Happiness," is Peace for the planet. Realities begin with visions; take form with words; take on life with actions. "If not now, when; if not by me, by whom?"
Reflections on the Attack at the World Trade Center. John94
I have shared this country's, the world's numbness for the passed twenty-four hours.
Hearts Touching, Hands Holding. Remy Benoit
We came to a new place as a nation, as individuals, two weeks ago today.
Dear Friends and Fellow Americans. Dr. Tony Kern, Lt. Col, USAF (Ret)
Like everyone else in this great country, I am reeling from last week's attack on our sovereignty. But unlike some, I am not reeling from surprise.
The Knowledge War. Dr. Mark H. Shapiro
Knowledge and information are the keys in the war against terrorism. (Reprinted with permission from IrascibleProfessor.com)
Living with Chronic Pain. Cynthia Perkins
Pain is an inevitable part of life.
Coping with the Loss and Grief Associated with Chronic Illness. Cynthia Perkins
Living with a chronic illness has a profound impact on one's life and creates a lot of grief in response to the losses it imposes on our lives.
Open Heart Surgery. Remy Benoit
Suppose you had the opportunity to give a speech to the United Nations. What would you say?
Shared Anxiety. John94
20 Insights Into the Secret of Letting Go. Guy Finley
The secret of letting go not only hold the keys for ending what is unwanted, but locked within this same supreme secret is the beginning of a new life - the birth of a new nature that never has to hold on to anything because it already is everything. Let the following special insights speed you on your way.
Opening of the D-Day Museum. Remy Benoit
War has been defined as many things; among them a "breakdown in diplomacy" and "hell." It is both of those, but it is so very, very much more.
Stories, Personal Expressions, and History Lessons. Remy Benoit
Eyewitness accounts can be very valuable sources of historic events. Like the one below, they can be extremely poignant sharings of events that altered lives. In the case of this story, the event recalled was one that changed history.
The Niquahanam Project: Help to Heal the World. Remy Benoit
A special project in connection with Using History for Healing and Writing.
Three New Choices That Dismiss Dark Conditions. Guy Finley
The only thing most of us know to do when life takes an unwanted turn, bringing us what we don't want, is to take a turn for the negative ourselves. And when the circumstance in question really makes a wreck of things, not only do we summarily reject the event seen "at cause," but for good measure we often will turn our wrath upon our own lives, pronouncing them "not worth living!"
The U.S. Military Academy. Courtesy U.S. Military Academy
The mission of the U.S. Military Academy is to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of Duty, Honor, Country; professional growth throughout a career as an officer in the United States Army; and a lifetime of selfless service to the Nation.
A Brief History of West Point. Courtesy U.S. Military Academy
West Point's role in our nation's history dates back to the Revolutionary War, when both sides realized the strategic importance of the commanding plateau on the west bank of the Hudson River. General George Washington considered West Point to be the most important strategic position in America.
Cancel Self-Wrecking Resentments. Guy Finley
What's a dark inner dialogue? Just what it sounds like: A negative tug-of-war in the unseen recesses of your mind where you're the only one pulling on both ends of the rope. Still more to the point, being in a dark inner dialogue is finding yourself losing a heated argument when there's no one else in the room with you!
Ode to America. Cornel Nistorescu
Our thanks to Evenimentul Zilei and Cornel Nistorescu, editor, for sharing his beautiful "Ode to America".
When History Talks Back: Teaching Nonfiction History of the Vietnam War. Larry R. Johannessen
This article originally appeared in the March 2002 issue of the English Journal. Larry Johannessen's approach to teaching the Literature of Vietnam is truly inspirational. Our thanks to him for his work, and to The English Journal and the National Council of Teachers of English for sharing it. "Copyright 2002 by the National Council of Teachers of English. Used with permission.
Platoon: the Real Story. Michael Pectol
Sgt. Pectol was inspired by a new television show on the Fox Channel called Heroes. It brought to mind for him some special heroes who are part of his personal history. He sent this letter to John Kasich at Heroes and has agreed to having it posted here with some editing for clarity of content. Thanks Sgt. Mikie!
Design of Tribute to Veterans Unveiled. Paul Purpura
This article is reproduced here with permission from the Times-Picayune in New Orleans. Our thanks to the Times-Picayune staff who consistently brings Veteran's Affairs to the reading public. Our special thanks to Paul Purpura, West Bank Bureau for patiently putting up with my requests to share the information he presented with you all. From the Times-Picayune, Sunday, April 14, 2001, Metro Section.
Brothers. Patrick Shine
Patrick Shine shares his thoughts with us concerning serving in Vietnam, the Brotherhood of All Soldiers, and the value of sharing time and memories with comrades in arms at reunions.
Letters to Those in Active Service. Michael Pectol
Sgt. Michael Pectol, http://277arty.tripod.com shares his thoughts with us on the importance of sharing our thoughts with those we have sent to defend us. Thanks for sharing, Mikie; and thanks for still being the one who looks after us all.
87 Year Old Veteran Feels Forsaken. Remy Benoit
The Times-Picayune of New Orleans ran a Letter to the Editor today, Sunday, April 28 2002 entitled “Sick veteran feels forgotten”on page B6.
A Plea for Healing with Forgiveness. Remy Benoit
I know it has been a long, long time for many of you to be carrying the hurt all tied up with the Vietnam War, but I am asking you to consider what I am saying here.
Expect a Masterpiece. Steven Goodier
Steve Goodier has graciously consented to share some of his inspiring motivational articles with us from www.lifesupportsystem.com
Sharing. Remy Benoit
Just after I put up A Plea for Forgiveness three pieces of writing came to me from three friends from the States to Australia. They have given me their permission to share them with you. These are words of healing, words of forgiveness, and words of hope.
A Good Place to Start Healing. Remy Benoit
I sat down this evening with Chicken Soup for the Veteran's Soul, intending to read a story or three. That was quite a while ago. I have cried, I have smiled, and I have been deeply touched.
What Does the Word PEACE Mean?. Remy Benoit
I have asked some people to write on the subject: What are the major obstacles to peace? Two questions came from a friend yesterday: “Just what is peace? What does the word mean to each person?” Those are good questions.
The Power of Forgiveness. Steve Goodier
Steve Goodier shares with us a story of forgiveness about Abraham Lincoln and a Civil War soldier.
What War Is From the Perspective of Children. Remy Benoit
A recommendation for a special UNICEF book: I dream of peace: Images of war by children of the former Yugoslavia. Preface by Maurice Sendak. Introduction by James P. Grant, Executive Director, UNICEF. 1994 I Never Saw Another Butterfly: Children’s Drawings and Poems from Terezin Concentration Camp 1942-1944 by Hana Volavkova, Editor, 1978- 94 And a plea from the United Nations and the Global Movement for Children
Find Personal Freedom in the Principles of Invisible Justice. Guy Finley
Guy Finley is graciously sharing with us once again here at WelcomeHomeSoldier. Today he speaks of Invisible Justice and its role in our lives. Thank you, Guy.
An Open Letter to the Boomer Generation. Remy Benoit
Generation Y Shares With Us. Remy Benoit
I asked several classes of high school young people to share their ideas with us relating to the question:What do you feel are the major obstacles to peace?
A Boomer Answers: Who Are We?. Janet Kieninger
I am delighted to share with you the first answer to my question of the Boomers: Who Are We?
Generation Y Continues. Remy Benoit
We continue with the voices of the young on the obstacles to world peace. Because of their comments, I am adding a few links to sites that will help us achieve tolerance toward each other.
Got a Problem?. Steve Goodier
We all have problems. What new, creative ways can we think of to solve them. Albert Einstein once reminded us that we could not solve our problems with the same thinking that originally caused them.
Generation Y Continues. Remy Benoit
We have high school Juniors with us today. The first two classes were Sophomores. The young people share many sentiments concerning the possibiities for peace. There are interesting perspectives in store for you here. The young have so much to tell us, if we choose to listen. Remember, it was one of them who told the Emperor about his clothes.
Salute to the Nurses of Vietnam. Harry Kieninger
Harry Kieninger served as a medic at Cu Chi in ’67. He is the author of When Can We Come Home? Understanding the Viet Nam Veteran. Please visit with Harry.
WELCOME TO THE NEW www.welcomehomesoldier.com. Remy Benoit
This is a place for you, no matter what kind of war you have known, to find help to write yourself home.
Some of you have known active battlefields, faced fear, known courage, known loss on foreign soil, in foreign waters, in foreign airways. Some of you have known pain at home when those closest to you, for whatever reason, have become the enemy. Some of you have let yourselves down and carry the pain of what might have beens. Some still feel the pain of a decades old incident in a classroom.
DayBook. Remy Benoit
Many of us keep journals, day books, diaries, travel journals. All of life is a journey as most of us have come to know.
At this point in time, it is my desire to write on topics related to ideas covered in the seminar. For today, I am including two DayBook entries that I feel expand some of the ideas covered.
If you have a story to tell of someone who helped you along the way, please do send it to us. Share your joy as a way of encouraging others to be there.
You Can Help: The Veterans’ National Stamp and Coin Club and “Project Outreach”. Remy Benoit
Formed more than 29 years ago this group is a nationwide distribution center to other VA Medical Facilities. There are over 600 active members throughout the United States and abroad. The stamps and coins acquired from donations are used for treating Veterans with service related medical problems.
Integrity in Writing. Remy Benoit
Perhaps you have come to a point with all this work where you are ready to begin a serious involvement with a piece of writing.
Perhaps you have been having “conversations” with your principle characters; perhaps the time and place of your story are clear to you and you have done enough research to be able to let your writing flow in that particular time and place.
You have studied your market, know what is selling, what is on the top ten list,or the made for tv movie of the week.
Your paper, or your invisible paper, is in front of you.
Just remember what you write, what you put yourself into with everything you have to give, becomes part of you, and is, of course, an extension of you.
This is where you must be carefilled; this is where you must ask yourself what is my true mission with this piece of writing, this extension of me?
Ask real questions of yourself, of your characters and you will find real answers, not rationalizations. Give you characters, and yourself, room to grow.
Write with truth, write with compassion; write with integrity.
Dear Steven. Remy Benoit
I received your letter tonight and tried to answer through the e-mail address you sent. However, it came back through the mail administrator. So I am hoping that you see this.
Here is my response to your letter.
Looking for Historical Information?. Remy Benoit
Are you familiar with The History Net? It is run through About.com
If you are looking for information on any war,or any period of history to help you with your writing, you will find a good beginning there.
Visit With a Friend, the Cloudpuncher, Tony McNally, and With The Forgotten Soldier.com. Remy Benoit
War is not new; it has been a pandemic plague throughout history.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is its partner.
Visit with Pharaoh Press, UK. Remy Benoit
For those of you who visit from the United Kingdom and the continent, as well as from so many other places around the world, I invite you to visit with Sue at Pharaoh Press.
People. Remy Benoit
140 Nations have signed the International Mine Ban Treaty. The United States has not.
Those Who Will Listen Will Learn. Steve Goodier
On this anniversary of the horror of September 11th may we all join in prayer to honor those we have lost and for guidance.
Steve Goodier's, Those Who Will Listen Will Learn, has some special thoughts to share with us today.
Something Very Precious. Remy Benoit
We are a nation in mourning; we are a nation of determination.
We are a nation who gives heartfelt gratitude to all of you across the world who touched us yesterday, who reached out to us a year ago as we reach out to the citizens of all the other countries who ache with us, sharing the loss, sharing the grief.
We are a People who know what it means to live with FREEDOM.
USO. Remy Benoit
For over 60 years the USO has provided services to the families and to our military personnel.
A Temperate Response. Steve Goodier
Steve always shares wonderful thoughts with us.
His words today of great importance.
Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day. Remy Benoit
Our Vietnam Veterans have been waiting for decades for a Welcome Home.
Now we have an opportunity to do this; to ease the pain the lack of that has brought them.
It does not matter what your position on the war was, these Veterans are our national family. They are not prodigal sons wanting to come home now; they are sons pushed out into the cold, scorned by their national family and carrying big, big hurt.
It is up to us to assuage that hurt and to learn what we can for future generations from this engagement.
Reference places and pictures to help you. Remy Benoit
These are some sites that may be of help to you in writing about history, or the current events of today.
In Memoriam. Remy Benoit
Stephen Ambrose passed on Sunday morning in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi.
Tom Brokaw said of his friend:
He was kind of America's Historian.
A Reminder. Remy Benoit
Vietnam Veterans Recognition Day Petition
Books That May Interest You. Remy Benoit
I have been reviewing books for quite a while now.
YOUR HELP IS NEEDED. Remy Benoit
As many of you are aware, there is a National Veterans Project.
For Charlie Brown from the Men of C 3/22. Patrick Shine
Last Tuesday, October 15th, Charlie Brown was honored in a beautiful and moving ceremony at Brookside Funeral Home, and then interred in the last bunker he will ever have to be in at Brookside Memorial Cemetery.
National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Et. Al.. Remy Benoit
There are many ideas around about the situation concerning homeless Veterans.
For some discussions on this topic, and how to help, please visit the following websites. These are just a few of many: if you have a favorite please send it along and I will post it.
Rethinking Schools. Remy Benoit
I came upon an interesting site today that I would like to draw your attention to.
Memory Lane. Remy Benoit
This was handed to me today in the office. A little piece, author unknown, called "How Did We Survive?"
It is a good indicator on how much the world has changed at a personal growing up level.
Day Book, October 28, 2002. Remy Benoit
The air outside here this morning is liquid and warm, heavy with the scent of mold. I got a call from Buffalo that they are expecting snow by the end of the week. The clocks were turned back this weekend to Standard Time. It is autumn.
Autumn is the time for bringing in the harvest; it is also a time for evaluation of the summer’s crop and preparation for the winter’s trials
Review of Musings: Writers Do It Write!. Remy Benoit
A group of women writers has come together to present you with a wonderful gift.
Their free-e-book: Musings: Authors Do It Write! is a journey through the realities, the commitment, and the joys of the writer’s life.
USA Patriot Act/Constitution/Bill of Rights. Remy Benoit
This is a web link to the USA PATRIOT Act as passed by Congress
Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act (Oct. 25, 2001)
HR 3162 RDS
Children in Afghanistan. Remy Benoit
The French Entertainer, Charles Aznevour, sings a song called Children of War.
It opens with the line, "There are children of war who have never been young."
Profile: What Can One Person Do? Meet Charlie Black. Remy Benoit
You won't find Charlie on the shelf with Hemingway, or Proust, or Joyce, or Wolfe.
You will find Charlie at Silver Spurs - A Troop, 3/17th Air Cav - Special Feature
I suggest you pay a visit to PTSD Support Services. Remy Benoit
When you visit this site, you find that the first words you see are WELCOME HOME.
I am aware of how sweet those words can be.
Veterans Day. Remy Benoit
On November 11th we honor our Veterans.
It has been a long, long time since the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the eleventh month when silence broke out across the bloodied trenches, across No Man's Land.
Something Special from Daily Guideposts.
I received an e-mail about Veterans Day.
What was in it was special, so with permission from Daily Guideposts: Your Source of Inspiration, I invite you to go to:
Veterans.
We Can Help Each Other. Remy Benoit
Teach them politics and war so their sons may study medicine and mathematics in order to give their children a right to study painting, poetry, music and architecture.
John Adams
Forgotten Soldier. Remy Benoit
Who is the Forgotten Soldier?
Do you know one?
Are you one?
Veterans Day Speech.
This speech is being shared from Frackville, Pennsylvania this Veterans Day.
I wonder how many of us thought of the true Essence of the Day. Perhaps this will remind us to.
Dave Bowen, thank you for Sharing.
Thank Those in Active Service. Remy Benoit
Tonight you are at your keyboard, watching the television, enjoying a hot meal, and/or a hot shower.
Gratitude. Remy Benoit
The holiday season is upon us.
It is a time of great expectations, and also, very often a time of great disappointments.
We often expect too much of ourselves and too much of others.
How can we change that?
A CALL. Remy Benoit
WE CAN MAKE HISTORY, OR HISTORY CAN UNMAKE US!
What is your story?
What have you learned?
It's About Hunger. Remy Benoit
Thanksgiving is upon us.
The markets are filled with food.
Many stores are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Many of us will spend the holidays with loved ones at abundant tables.
But many will spend them alone with very sparse tables.
Many years ago in a classroom a young man asked a simple question. He asked it with tears in his eyes, after a detailed explanation of trade, tariffs,embargoes, etc.
He asked the question of me.
"But why do people have to go hungry?"
We are still searching for an answer to that young man's question.
You can help with just a click to a website:
Hunger Site.
Welcome Back Warrior. Paul Rubin
From Phoenix New Times comes the story of a Marine.
It is a story you will understand.
That saddens me just as the tale of this Marine's journey to try to come home does.
A Question That Needs To Be Asked. Remy Benoit
This is a question that needs to be asked, and we are the ones to be asking it.
If the VA is having problems now keeping up with the needs of our current Veterans, what provisions are being made to tend to the needs of those yet to come from the areas where we are sending those on active duty?
Milestones in American Documents. Remy Benoit
We have a long history of a great thirst for freedom.
We have proven that on many battlefields, including here at home during the Revolution.
We have a debt to pay; a simple one, a vital one.
Some Thoughts About Words. Remy Benoit
Meister Eckhart, 1260-1328, conveyed a simple truth:
"The purpose of a word is to reveal."
Brave Pages: A Site You Will Appreciate. Remy Benoit
I am a very strong advocate of oral history. We need to know who we were; where we came from, and who helped shape our values to know who we are and who we can be.
Rethinking Schools. Remy Benoit
We are responsible for what is taught in our schools.
We are responsible in making sure that all sides of all subjects are presented.
Christmas at Okinawa. Remy Benoit
Have you ever been away from home and those you love for Christmas? If you have, you have some idea of what this soldier is trying to tell us.
If you haven't been away from loved ones and home, try to imagine how it would feel to not only be away but to be in a battle zone for Christmas.
December 7, 1941. Remy Benoit
Today we remember.
Today we still mourn.
This day in history was, indeed, a Day of Infamy.
Meet John Thompson -Photos/Graphics. Remy Benoit
Are you working with an old photograph for your writing?
Is it looking murky, cracking, fading?
Does it need restoration?
Are you ready for a terrific cover design for your book?
Season's Greetings. Tony McNally
This comes to us from the UK.
It comes with shared feelings; it comes to us with great understanding.
Mack is a Veteran of the Falklands War and the author of Cloudpuncher.
And coming back to you, Mack, is a big hug and lots of love.
Christmas Day, 1966: The Bob Hope Show.. Harry Kieninger
We are taking a trip down memory lane.
Tonight we give you Christmas at Cu Chi, 1966.
The words are Harry Kieninger's. You may visit with Harry at Medic.
The photo is courtesy of Mike Pectol, focus11b from Arty.
The soldier in the picture, decorating a tree from home, is Phil Costantino, focus11 from '66-'67.
Thank you for sharing.
And, Bob, "Thanks for the memories."
Blessings for the New Year. Remy Benoit
The day is beginning to darken, the last evening of 2002. Here fireworks are legal, and they are popping already.
Our New Year's greeting is a simple one from so many lifeforms with whom we share this beautiful planet.
Some Reading Recommendations. Remy Benoit
As we are all aware, the world grows smaller everyday. The fact that we are so interconnected demands of us that we begin to accept that deep connection. Jean Houston, in her A Passion for the Possible: A Guide to Realizing Your True Potential makes this deep connection quite vivid for us:
Every sniff brings the world through your nose. It has been estimated that in any given three-week period, some molecules of everyone on this planet pass through you breathing apparatus-your aunt Annie, the president of France, a giraffe in Kenya.
We're Back!. Remy Benoit
Sorry for the inconvenience the last few days - a server upgrade.
With the new year in full swing, with talk of war in the air, I thought this to be a good time to direct you to a special essay by Robert Olen Butler.
Iraq: some views. Remy Benoit
There is much in the news about the severe problems in Iraq.
There is much to consider when a country speaks of the possibility of war.
Most of you know; many of you have been through it.
Below are links to a variety of viewpoints:
Cloudpuncher by Tony McNally. Reviewed by Remy Benoit
Our lives are made up of all kinds of relationships.
Each type of relationship implies some kind of mutual responsibility.
One of those relationships is between those we send to serve, and we who send them. I usually refer to this particular relationship as a covenant: if you will be there for us, we will be there for you.
Cloudpuncher.
Watching Men Burn.
Not For Queen or Country by Edward Denmark. Reviewed by Remy Benoit
This is an honest book, an account of life in the military by a man who served as a British soldier in Northern Ireland and in the Falklands War.
Denmark notes that his initial attraction to the armed services had a lot to do with extravagant recruitment posters of soldiers skiing, of soldiers walking sunny beaches. It also had a lot to do with relief from the drudgery of factory work. In fact, after a brief hiatus from the military, Denmark re-enlisted and attempted Para training.
Iraqi Question. Remy Benoit
There are a wide variety of positions on the question of making war on Iraq.
Project Hearts and Minds: A Mission of Reconciliation.
Project Hearts and Minds.
This is a non-profit volunteer group which includes Veterans.
Their mission is reconciliation.
They hope to "put a human face on the tragedy of war."
President Bush's Budget Proposal. Remy Benoit
The Veterans Administration is there for ALL Veterans.
Problems with the VA are common knowledge.
You may find President Bush's Budget Proposal for 2004 - A Blueprint for New Beginnings at:
Blueprint for New Beginnings.
Veterans for Common Sense. Remy Benoit
War is a serious thing; a very serious thing.
Veterans for Common Sense is an organization founded by Gulf War Veterans that provides articles about the proposed war on Iraq as well as open debate.
Veterans for Common Sense.
Say Hi to a GI.
You can send a message to those in active
service.
Let them know we are there for them now and will be when they come home again.
Say Hi to a GI.
Global Security.org.
From the Military, to Homeland Security, to Intelligence and Space, you will find reports, ideas, documents at Global Security.
An informed citizenry is the backbone of a democracy.
A Fateful Decision. Pat Shine
I asked Pat if I could share this with all of you.
His answer was yes.
His hope is that perhaps it will help one of you make the Fateful Decision and end the feeling of being alone.
I add my prayer to his hope.
Looking for Books?. Remy Benoit
If you are looking for books to purchase this is an interesting place.
ABE Books.
There are over 1 million titles just on the subject of war.
If there is something special that you are looking for this might be the place to find it.
They also carry First Editions for those of you who are seeking something in that category.
Veterans Rights and Benefits. Remy Benoit
This morning I draw your attention to some articles being run at
Veterans for Common Sense.
Power of Words. Remy Benoit
Today there are two sites to direct your attention to that come to us courtesy of Rethinking Schools.
YOU were soldiers once, and young. Remy Benoit
This article in the Washington Post caught my eye this morning.
To Gulf Troops,Vietnam is History.
To Gulf Troops, Vietnam is History comes to us from Camp Coyote, Kuwait By Peter Baker and Jonathan Finer
Washington Post Foreign Service
Wednesday, March 5, 2003; Page A01
A Familiar Name. Remy Benoit
With the airing of the TV movie,The Pentagon Papers, this week, I was asked Who is Daniel Ellsberg?
Who was this marine, this "clerk" who went through over 7,000 pages of documents and then leaked The Pentagon Papers and why did he do it?
Health Care and Our Troops. Remy Benoit
All of us have concern for those in activity duty today. Many of you know all about health care issues and our Veterans.
What are the Politicos Saying About the Proposed War?. Remy Benoit
This afternoon I thought this article would be of interest to you.
US Representative John J. Duncan ( R-TN )
speaks out for the conservative position:
Conservative Position on the Proposed War.
Senator Calls for Probe of DoD Healthcare. Press Release - John Kerry
Senator Calls for Probe of DoD Healthcare
Is all being done that should be done according to the "November 18, 1997, President Clinton signed into law Public Law 105-85, which required the DOD to develop and implement a medical tracking system for service members deployed overseas?"
On the question of oil. Remy Benoit
There have been questions raised about oil and the proposed war.
Who gains from the oil wells?
Who will be responsible for them?
Would Saddam level them?
Just War - or a Just War. Jimmy Carter
Former President Jimmy Carter shares his ideas about the proposed war with Iraq in the New York Times: Just war - or a Just War.
Pledge Allegiance to Our Troops. David Hackworth
David Hackworth's name is well known.
He shares his concern for our troops at
Pledge Allegiance to Our Troops.
atVeterans for Common Sense.
A Variety of Positions. Remy Benoit
The basis of a successful democracy is citizen involvement and voice.
Here are some viewpoints about the proposed war on Iraq.
Proposals Concerning Iraq Continue. Remy Benoit
The debate goes on, the suggested time frames continue being argued, the demand lists alter.
So here are some of the features of today's positions:
On Line Opinions on the Proposed War. Remy Benoit
There are many groups, pro/anti war.
These links will show you were different groups stand on the issues.
Stand By Our Troops.
Whatever is coming, whatever your feelings about it, remember those we sent to serve are our flesh and blood...
THEY ARE US.
WE MUST STAND BY THEM.
At the Brink. Remy Benoit
Last night President Bush gave Saddam Hussein an ultimatum.
Today the world reacts.
March 19, 2003. Remy Benoit
It is a beautiful morning here in New Orleans while we wait.
For those of you on the front lines, our prayers are with you.
Operation Dear Abby.
Operation USO Care Package. Remy Benoit
Because of security needs, the USO has devised a plan to get "care packages" to our troops.
The USO has played a vital part in the lives of our service people for a long time.
Verities of War. Remy Benoit
It is the first day of spring here in the States.
We are at war.
We have lost some of our own: a marine from the 1st Expeditionary Force, as yet not identified pending family notification, and four of our US Troops as well as 8 from the UK in a Marine helicopter crash.
Oxfam America Fact Sheet on Humanitarian Implications of Military Action in Iraq. Remy Benoit
We are in a war to aide the people of Iraq, to liberate them.
With that comes a huge responsibility for their post-war welfare.
There will be disruptions in an already disrupted country with food, sewage, water, sanitation, child and prenatal care, etc.
Veteran Teach-In CSPAN LIVE TODAY. Remy Benoit
Today, Saturday, March 22, at Kay Chapel, American University Saturday, March 22, 1-5 pm live on CSPAN join a Teach -In concerning issues relevant to current situation
For details, speakers, etc.: Teach-In.
Budget Cuts and Veterans. Remy Benoit
For an overview of proposed budget cuts regarding Veterans:
Major Veterans Groups Battle VA Budget Cuts The American Legion.
Veterans Against the Iraq War.
The strength of a democracy is in its voice.
In many parts of the nation there are protests against the war, while at the same time standing in support of our troops.
One of those collective voices is;Veterans Against the Iraq War.
For international reaction: BBC News
Sunday. Remy Benoit
These are some of the headline articles of the day:
Sunday Night. Remy Benoit
We mourn the loss of life in this confrontation and share the grief of all those loses touch. Indeed, each life lost touches us all.
Our prayers are with those taken as Prisoners of War.
Monday, March 24, 2003. Remy Benoit Monday Evening. Remy Benoit War and the Media. Remy Benoit Commentary on the Media. Remy Benoit Uprising ?. Remy Benoit Our Fallen Troops. Remy Benoit Baghdad. Remy Benoit Dolphins and Mines. Continuing War Coverage. Remy Benoit The War on the Web. Remy Benoit The Troops Are US. Remy Benoit Keep the Home Fires Burning. Remy Benoit The Verities of War. Remy Benoit The Numbers Grow - The Pain is Felt at Home. Remy Benoit The Dreaded Knock on the Door. Remy Benoit The Power of Words: Crusade/Jihad. Remy Benoit Congressional Perogatives. Remy Benoit Discussions on Post War Iraq. Remy Benoit Welcome Home, Jessica. Remy Benoit Benefits for Military. Looking Toward Post War Iraq. Remy Benoit Again, the Power of Words. Remy Benoit Reconstructing Iraq. Remy Benoit Homefront. Remy Benoit What next for Iraq and Saddam? and US. Remy Benoit New Developments. Remy Benoit Curfew. Remy Benoit Vietnam Veterans and the Iraq War. Remy Benoit Anguish. Remy Benoit Something to Share - A Common Soldier. Remy Benoit Syria - Cradle of Civilization - Modern Day. Remy Benoit Dennis Who?. Remy Benoit Iran. Remy Benoit France. Remy Benoit The Verities of War and PTSD. Remy Benoit Perspectives. Remy Benoit Doctors Without Borders. Remy Benoit Aftermath of War: Artifacts and Plague. Remy Benoit Artifacts Returning/Life in a Post War Country. Remy Benoit Women in Combat. Remy Benoit Letters Home. Remy Benoit Curators Gather to Help Restore Iraqi Antiquities. Remy Benoit A Tribute to Gunner Callan. Sgt. Greg Aurandman World War II Memoirs from Canada by Stan Scislowski. Stan Scislowski Malaria/Mefloquine/Lariam - Are there problems with these?. Remy Benoit America Library Association to Help Iraq. Remy Benoit Writing World.com/NewsTrove.com. Remy Benoit For Those of Us who are Grand/Great Grandparents. Remy Benoit Some Peace in War. Stan Scislowski Will you Help to Heal the World?. Remy Benoit Freedom to Read. Remy Benoit A Number to Consider. Remy Benoit Just a Thought. Remy Benoit The Search for WMD. Remy Benoit In the Wake of War. Remy Benoit Roses and Freedom. Remy Benoit Mass Grave South of Baghdad. Remy Benoit What We So Take for Granted: Freedom of the Press. Remy Benoit International Conscientious Objectors Day May 15. Remy Benoit The Personal Side of War. Remy Benoit Children of War. Remy Benoit A Nightingale Sang - or did it?. Stan Scislowski What will happen to the Baath party members in Iraq. Remy Benoit Is a different path possible?. Remy Benoit The Clergy and the Major. Remy Benoit What is the future of the Iraqi Army?. Remy Benoit Memorial Day. Remy Benoit A Special Message From a World War II Veteran to All You Vietnam Veterans. Stan Scislowski Concern from Amnesty International. Remy Benoit FROM SEA TO SHINING SEA COME GREETINGS: HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY, BOB HOPE. Remy Benoit Pointmen of the American Ideal. Capt. Douglas (Sandy) Cohn, USA (ret.) VA: 275,000 Veterans Homeless Every Night . Ohio State Senator Jim Carnes Coshocton (Ohio) Tribune Hide and Seek. Remy Benoit Anybody from the 22nd out there named Mobley?. Remy Benoit Rumsfeld in Europe. Remy Benoit Flag Day and Happy Birthday US Army. Remy Benoit The Verities of War. Remy Benoit Down Memory Lane. Remy Benoit The Strength of Human Endurance. Remy Benoit Sharing the Planet. Remy Benoit Bush and Iran. Remy Benoit Who are the fighters crossing into Iraq to take on American Forces?. Remy Benoit Korean War Anniversary. Remy Benoit History of Korean War. Remy Benoit Questions Being Raised. Remy Benoit While we celebrate the coming of summer, our troops are still engaged. Remy Benoit Casualties Continue to Mount and Questions Continue to be Raised. Remy Benoit Vietnam Collectors/Reenactors. Remy Benoit Not a GI, but a Real Trooper None the Less: Today we mourn the passing of Kate Hepburn. Remy Benoit Where are the WMD?. Remy Benoit Happy 4th of July !. Remy Benoit US Troops Abroad . Remy Benoit In the News. Remy Benoit We are back to the meaning of words again. Remy Benoit More on the topic of real Patriotism. Remy Benoit Costs Climb in Iraq. Remy Benoit Investigations into Chemical Tests on Military Personnel Continue. Remy Benoit Bastille Day. Remy Benoit Senator Robert Byrd, July 11, 2003. Remy Benoit Disabled Veterans of America. Remy Benoit Is this the "R" Word Again?. Remy Benoit National Guard Role Expands. Remy Benoit More losses of our troops. Remy Benoit Those We Send. Remy Benoit Up Close and Personal. Remy Benoit Two Landmarks. Remy Benoit Is There a Veterans' Memorial Park in Your Town?. Remy Benoit Down History Lane. Remy Benoit Remember the Blood of Heroes. Turning Things Upside Down. Remy Benoit Hunger in the US. Remy Benoit For Tim O'Brien Fans. Remy Benoit
The war continues with much fighting.
Prisoners of War are entitled to the humanitarian rights outlined in the Geneva Convention: Geneva Convention.
From the Washington Post: Display of 5 POWs Draws Firm Rebuke U.S. Warns Iraq on Televised Images By Bradley Graham and Jonathan Weisman Washington Post Staff WritersMonday, March 24, 2003; Page A01
As fighting comes near to Holy Cities, this article will help clarify feelings about these areas.
From Fox News:
Background: Karbala and Najaf By Paul Wagenseil.
Mass media, like mass anything, often, usually, does not reflect all the nuances of a situation.
War is a fierce and bloody thing.
What is the role of the media in wartime?
What are the responsibilities of the media?
As has been said, 'war is not a video game.'
It is brutal and messy and very harsh.
Death is an integral part of it.
Troops being taken as Prisoners of War are an integral part of it.
How much of its truth should be shown?
Why should viewers be offended by the real face of war?
Does honest reporting not show the real face of war?
How much should the children see?
How do we show consideration for the family members of those who fall or are taken prisoner?
Just how much reporting should be given to troop movements? When does that become dangerous to the troops?
Early reports are coming in on an alleged uprising by Shiite Muslims of Basra.
We mourn the loss of our troops; we all share the grief of their families. We are all family.
To those who are on this battle front, we send our prayers for your safe return.
Blessings,
Remy
Baghdad is a very old city.
It is now under seige.
Many have left.
Those who remain who wish to see the end of Hussein's reign are fearful.
From CNN: Dolphins aid Iraq mine-clearance.
War is a tentacled thing, its blood soaked arms clawing into military and civilian lives.
There are many positions concerning the war in Iraq.
All around the country and the globe there are demonstrations both anti and pro.
This war is also being discussed at great length around the world on the web.
I was deeply disturbed reading the article linked to below this morning.
I do not, in any way, believe that this reporting reflects on the character of the people of this state. This incident could have taken place anywhere. Probably has; probably will.
Many of you who are Veterans of the Vietnam War have had this kind of experience. Although the insult was decades ago, I know from what you tell me, the pain is fresh.
This was an act of a handful of young people.
Nevertheless, age does not excuse this kind of behavior.
One of the realities of war is that of the families and friends waiting for news at home.
The battlefield leads to many questions.
All that lives have known before comes undone.
And that leads to confusion, pain, and very often, later in life Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
The gods of war know no satiation.
Daily the numbers grow: KIA, MIA, WIA, POW.
Our hearts, our prayers are with all of them and all who wait.
And while they serve, their children wait. How can we help them with that? What can our communities do to reach out to these children?
The daughter, the son, the husband...how do you tell the next of kin that their loved one is missing, wounded,a POW, or not coming home alive.
It used to be a telegram that was the dreaded messenger. Since 1955 it has been a knock on the door.
Words have power.
Words have history, have baggage, and have major impact.
Words once spoken can never be totally taken back.
The Constitution of the United States is based upon a very specific division of, and balancing of, power.
That document was framed that way for a reason.
The reason is very simple: to protect the people who framed it from any encroachments on their freedom.
Below is Article 1 of the Constitution which deals with the powers of Congress.
If you have not read this since high school, perhaps you should read it again. If you have never read it, well, it is time to read about the bicameral legislative branch that is the lawmaker and the financial conduit of this country.
The questions are being debated as to how post-war Iraq will be reconstructed.
Who will lead the reconstruction?
What will UN involvement be?
How will it be funded?
Below are some of the things being said to date.
Jessica, as a mother, as a citizen of this country, Welcome Home.
Thank you, Jessica, for your service.
Please know that all our prayers are with you for healing.
Blessings,
Remy
Lawmakers are moving to enhance benefits.
From Fox News and Kelley Beaucar Vlahos: Lawmakers Rush to Aid Military Families by Kelley Beaucar Vlahos.
As Coalition troops move into Baghdad there are various possibilities being discussed for the post war government.
How much UN involvement should there be?
What role will Iraqis play in running their country?
Who will make up the new leadership of a country being brought into a new form of government?
Emotions nationally and internationally will run high on this issue. What is its history; what is its future?
I know, again, again I mention the power of words.
But with the 24/7 reporting we are beseiged with words.
With coalition troops in Baghdad how Iraq will be constructed will become the major issue.
It is not an easy task and arguments will be heard on all sides.
There are many, many positions in this country about the war with Iraq; many, many positions about the peace and reconstruction.
Those at home send support and love to the troops in country, even when they are like Miz' Alice protesting. Join her in Canton, Mass. with this AP piece and others here on the homefront.
Amidst celebration there is war still raging.
While statues and posters fall, the Coalition looks for Saddam.
Alleged torture chambers are opened to world view.
How will Iraq be ruled?
Who will rule?
Should there be trials for Iraq's fallen leadership on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity?
These are some of today's views:
We are watching, some of us, 24/7, a regime change in Baghdad.
All kinds of questions are, and will be raised.
What will we find?
What will be the future, immediate and long range, role of Iraq in the 21st century?
The Coalition forces continue trying to restore order in Iraq.
From the AP Press and Military.com Tikrit Is Last Iraqi Holdout.
At Military.com you can join the discussion:Military.com.
Many Vets feel unable to walk away from the television screen:
From Pittsburg, the Post-Gazette and By Milan Simonich, Post-Gazette Staff Writer: War on Iraq brings back haunting memories for Vietnam vets.
During war terrible things happen and those terrible things live on in the hearts, minds, souls of those who knew them.
This war is generating a new group of Veterans who will have much healing to do; who will need help.
At the same the proposed budget calls for vast cuts in Veteran care. Is that how we keep our unwritten Covenant? Be there for us, and we will be there for you...
Domestic areas require much help.
The people of Iraq will also need much help.
Waging war brings new responsibilities, vast responsibilities.
How we meet them is a measure of who we are.
This piece was brought to my attention.
I felt it should be brought to yours.
JUST A COMMON SOLDIER by
A. Lawrence Vaincourt.
You might like to pass it along.
Syria neighbors Iraq.
It has a long and complicated history dating back to 9000BCE. It is said that this is where civilization began.
With all the talk between the US and Syria at the moment, it is good to take a look at the history and beliefs of the people who live there.
Below are some links that will help with that.
Who is Dennis Kucinich?
He is a Progressive, the sponsor of a bill for a Department of Peace.
Who is he and what does he stand for?
As the world grows smaller each and every day, it becomes increasingly important that we learn each other's history, culture, and perspectives.
Much of the history of the world is taught in huge survey courses that leave little time for close up looks at the cultures of other countries, and often, even our own.
However, with the web history is now quite literally at your finger tips.
Iran is currently in the news. Let's take a look at the historic roots of its culture.
When we fought for our independence, Lafayette was here.
When the battle was on French soil the cry of the Lafayette Escadrille was "Lafayette, we are here."
We were there on the beaches of Normandy.
They were at Dien Bien Phu.
Here in New Orleans the French heritage is everywhere as Louisiana celebrates its Bicentennial.
Below are links to the history of France, and to the history of Louisiana.
As I have said, war is an insatiably hungry thing. Even when the guns begin to silence, or are finally silenced, the experiences known in combat stay very much alive.
Very often those who serve need medical and psychological treatment. Please, make your representatives aware that we need to keep the Covenant with those we send to fight.
Support our Veterans.
There is so much in the news these last few weeks that it is sometimes hard to keep up with.
Nevertheless, that keeping up is our responsibility.
Below are some reactions to things that are going on here and abroad.
Doctors Without Borders is a humanitarian volunteer group.
They are at work in Iraq, as well as many other places, and they need your help.
The National Museum of Iraq has been looted. The questions remain: by whom, was the looting pre-planned.
Some of the lights are back on, but much of the water is not yet running increasing chances for cholera and thyphoid.
From the University of Pennsylvania Museum:Saving the Past for Future Generations:UPM's Statement on the Looting of the Iraq National Museum by Dr. Richard L. Zettler, Associate Curator-in-charge of the Near Eastern Section and Dr. Jeremy A. Sabloff, UPM's Williams Director.
Some of the treasures missing from the museum were taken into safe keeping; others did not fare so well.
There are areas of unrest between different Muslim groups, and while Iraqis ask for protection during this time of upheaval, they are also making it clear, Thank you, now please leave it to us to set up an Islamic state.
And, as always in combat, there is the toll on those we send to fight.
Throughout the upheavals of the Sixties, there was a beginning of East and West meeting, culturally, religiously, and philosophically exchanging ideas, coming to understandings. Perhaps, if we pursue it, this engagement may lead to greater understanding, communication, and compassion.
While the pros and cons of it are still being argued, the fact is, women are, and have been in combat.
Does that change the face of war?
What are the risks, the advantages?
Does it give new definition to the word equality?
What problems occur when "Moms" are in combat?
We have availability to so, so many letters home from so, so many wars.
Now we have them from Iraq, and some of them are final letters home.
They speak of God, of love, of hope, of pizza and things familiar.
For those whose letters were the last ones home, we grieve with their families. We honor their sacrifice.
The worst case scenario fears for Iraqi antiquities faced with being on a battlefront have been at least partially realized.
Many of the antiquities have been looted, damaged, destroyed.
A summit of Curators met at the British Museum today to begin outlining ways to help Iraq reclaim it tremendous antiquity heritage.
Gunner Brian Callan was a Marine, dedicated to country, duty, and his men.
What happened to him is a tale that is so sadly not unfamiliar. You may read his story in the Phoenix Times by Paul Rubin at:Welcome Back Warrior.
Sgt. Aurandman offers his memory the following tribute.
Stan Scislowski, author of Not All of Us Were Brave, Editor of Royal Canadian
Legion Branch Newsletter for 40 years, joins us from Canada.
To view Stan’s book, please go to:Not All of Us Were Brave.
Stan is sharing some of his words, his memories with us. For today we join him with:
The controversy over the Mefloquine/Lariam treatment for malaria has been brought to my attention.
It is a controversy well worth being researched.
If you have taken, or are taking this drug and having problems there are links below that will help you.
Museum Curators from around the world met to begin to help Iraq restore its national treasures.
The American Library Association in conjunction with the Heritage Emergency National Task Force is helping too.
To get the full story, please go to: ALA joins international library community in assisting Iraq National Library.
Thanks to Moira Allen and her Writing World.Com. I became aware of a special news service: NewsTrove.Com.
You will find information about the 101st Airborne, the 173rd Airborne, the 7th Calvary, and 82nd Airborne as well as a vast host of other topics from Archaeology to Web Hosting.
Those of you who know me personally KNOW that I am a book nut. I am physically incapable of resisting a book sale and have a vast, vast, vast library.
When I was a child, my favorite book was The Princess and the Goblin. One day my daughter found me a reprint of this book that dates back to the 1870's, and since then I have found a 1930's copy of MacDonald's book.
Books formed a great, great part of my youth. I recall that Princess Irene's story was in a hardback maroon cover with sort of thick beige pages. Her story has left me with a life time fascination with hidden staircases and things that go bump in the night. Her goblins and her struggle with them in their own way took me to the path of other things that go bump in the night, like war and PTSD. But keep the faith, the Princess and her Geordi were victorius over the goblins.
On the way back to the battlefront, a soldier finds some peace.
It is World War II and we are in Italy with Stan Scislowski in 1944.
Today is a special day for us here at WHS.
With tremendous gratitude to my son for endless hours of computer work, we announce the formal launching of The Niquahanam Project: Help to Heal the World.
The words "Reading is Fundamental" are well known to all who live in this country.
Reading is the link that joins us across centuries. It transmits words, ideas, emotions, experience. It gives us common ground as human beings. It helps us to grow; it helps us to heal; it helps us to share.
Ben Franklin is in part a national hero because of his advocacy of libraries.
I was visiting the site of Global Action to Prevent War: A Coalition-Building Effort to Stop War, Genocide, and Internal Armed Conflict.
I came across a number there.
If there is any validity to the idea of reincarnation, and a vast amount of the world's population believes it has great validity, then consider this thought.
You chose to be alive in this time period in history.
Why?
What is the work that you are to do?
What is the work that as a unique individual can only be done by you?
Weapons of Mass Destruction in large quantities are eluding US search teams. For an update on that search, visit The Washington Post: Frustrated, U.S. Arms Team to Leave Iraq Task Force Unable To Find Any Weapons.
When a government is removed, a power vacuum is left; chaos reigns. That time is a very precarious time for a nation as people are often in favor of the return of stability, and sometimes are prone to overlooking its price tag.
US troops face a daunting task in Baghdad, as well as the rest of Iraq.
Some reports from that nation follow:
Roses mean so many, many things.
Red ones mean love.
Something said, "Subrosa" is to be kept confidential, thus the roses carved high on old conference room walls.
England had its War of the Roses.
The subject of Roses came to mind with all the talk of dictatorship, persecution, denial of rights, freedom.
CNN reports the unearthing if a mass grave, seemingly of Shiites who attempted to unseat Saddam in 1991. Iraqis uncover thousands in mass grave.
From the Archives of the Times of London we have a reminder that Freedom of the Press is a hard won civil liberty and one that must be protected. With instant cameras and satellite links, we have become accustomed to instant reportage. That, obviously, was not always so.
From the BBC interviews with four Conscientious Objectors from 4 different wars explain their positions on the stands they have taken.
'Why I would not kill in war'.
War is much more than just a break down in communications. It is human interactions in oh so many ways.
There are the terrible, deadly moments on the field of battle, and there are the awesome moments of human touching.
There is an old song called Children of War by French artist Charles Aznevour with a line that goes, "There are children of war who have never been young."
In any war, despite the best intentions, there are the realities. Those realities often impact most harshly on the children.
Those of us who are aficinados of old World War II songs know how A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.
Well, now that the Lights have gone on All Over the World, maybe this will shed some light on just who did that singing.
What will become of the followers of Saddam?
Party membership was the way to advancement, to education. What price will be paid for that price?
From Washington Post.com Highlights -Iraqis killing Baath Party members -
U.S. punishment seen as not harsh enough.
Some say that we are by our very nature a belligerent species. Others are trying to prove that anthropologically we are not; that aggression is a learned behavior.
There are many factors involved in what each of us grows up to be. Environment plays its role; the amount of love and assurance given plays its. Some say that up to 70% of childhood training is in negatives: Don't do this, that, or the other thing.
In the aftermath of war the lives of soldiers, religious leaders, and civilians intermingle.
There are problems of sanitation, of customs, of expectations for the future of Iraq.
With the Iraqi Army, like the Baath Party, officially disbanded, what is the new Iraqi Army to be?
Who will be allowed to serve?
How will those accused by rank of complicity with Hussein be able to plead their cases?
What munitions will be permitted?
As we celebrate this Memorial Day holiday, honoring those who gave all to preserve who we are, a thought occurred to me.
We have come to think of the governance of this country as "them" and "us."
They are the ones elected to represent us. We are the ones who are represented.
I promised someone, a Vietnam Veteran, that one day he would see this; a letter, a statement like this.
When I read it, well, yes, you can smile and shed copious tears at the same time.
So across the years, across the wars.
Bless you, Stan, for this.
Remy
With war and terrorism having become a great part of our lives, there is a concern from Amnesty International about violations of human rights in the name of freedom.
To Bob,
From every GI who you, and your troops, gave a respite from hell; your courage is exemplary; your heart boundless, your love unconditional.
Hear our voices across this nation in song;
BOB, THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES.
God Bless and Keep you!
A Grateful Nation
This year marks the 35th Anniversary of the West Point Class of 1968.
I received a message a few moments ago asking me to share these words, these memories with you as a tribute to a West Point Class with several members who did not come home.
I stood one day a few months ago with the man from this class who asked me to run "Sandy's" Memorial Speech as he pointed out who was who in their graduation picture. Too often during those very poignant moments he said naming one of them after another for me, "He did not come home."
I feel touched, I feel honored, to post Captain Douglas Cohn's, tribute. These men gave all for Honor, Duty, Country.
For those of you here to read these words, Welcome Home. For those of you who have gone on I know, somehow, someway you understand how your brothers feel, how very much you are missed and how inadequate words seem to be when it comes to saying Thank You for giving the ultimate for the country you love. We pray that the Lord showers you with His Blessings; we send you our very personal, Welcome Home.
They serve their country.
Sometimes they go off to war with flags waving and crowds cheering.
Sometimes they come home, if they come home, to parades and crowds cheering.
Sometimes they come home to derision and neglect.
They are our Veterans.
We're back. Been moving from one house to a new one, but back on line now, even if I haven't yet found the can opener!
Seems there is some controversy a brewing about the WMD's and credibility.
Got the note below a little bit ago...so if your name is Mobley and you were with Delta Company 3rd of the 22nd from 4/1/68 to 4/1/69 there's a buddy named Al looking for you.
Defense Secretary Rumsfield makes some statements about the old and new Europe and about the possibilities of nuclear weapon development in Iran
Today is Flag Day and it is also the birthday of the United States Army.
Fly the colors and thank a Veteran for protecting them.
War is a hungry, devouring thing. At present there are about 30 going on around the globe.
Join Steven Rosenfeld and Chris Hedges for What Every Person Should Know About War.
Being a first year Boomer, I remember growing up in a world that was Them and Us. There was the Korean War, East German Uprising in '53,reported below; the Hungarian Revolution of '56; Sputnik; the Guns of October; and, of course, Vietnam.
Do you remember the bomb shelters? The question: Would you let your neighbors in?
All of which brings us to the old adage: The only constant is change. Yesterday's enemy may be today's friend. How can we enlarge our vision to know that and to work with it.
For those of you who weren't there, who didn't know the insanity of MAD ( Mutually Assured Destruction ), here are some links to take you back to those not so wonderful times:
History is full of tales of the depths of our will to survival. The tales are the type that fill us with wonder and awe and make us ask ourselves could we endure what this person did.
The name of Jawad Amer Sayed joins the ranks of those whose will to survive astonishes us. He lived inside a false wall in his home about 100 miles southeast of Baghdad for 22 years.
I have just moved back to the country. I believe there is something in us Boomers that draws us back to the land.
Two huge live oaks stand centinnel in the front yard that you come to from a lumpy, bumpy road. Across the road from us is the Global Wildlife Center, so when I get my mail, I am greeted by all sorts of our co-habitors on this planet grazing in innocence, unaware of the capabilities for destruction of their human brothers.
When dark falls here, it is a deep, deep penetrating dark that even blinks out the massive live oaks.
A rooster crows in the morning, a horse pastures on the bumpy road.
It is a good reminder that once all was not cement, city lights and parking lots. It is a good place to touch Creation. So when I read Jane Goodall's words this morning they stuck home.
President Bush said he " will not tolerate " nuclear weapons in Iran.
From the New York Times and David E. Sanger:
Bush Says U.S. Will Not Tolerate Building of Nuclear Arms by Iran By DAVID E. SANGER.
While the war may be "over" Iraq is far from stabilized. American Forces are confronted with loyalists to the still missing Saddam who appear to be recruiting others to help fight their cause.
I was 4 years old when the Korean War started.
I remember the newsreels that brought terrible pictures of terrible cold, death, destruction.
The grandpop of one of my son's friends served there, doing ID's from dentures. When he came home, well, someone said to him, "Oh, you're back." Not exactly a ticker tape parade that.
So, here we are, all these years later. In a couple weeks, my fourth novel, Loving, will come out from Pharaoh Press.
In it there are four battle scenes: one from the Meuse Argonne; one from Anzio, a "real life" situation that plagued my deceased father-in-law until he passed on, so that one is for you, Sgt. Tony.
The third one came from my memories of the Korean snow and was written with my medic buddy, Harry Kieninger. who served at Cu Chi. This one is for you Grandpop Dick, and for all of your buddies who did not hear a resounding Welcome Home at the time. We thank you for your service. Welcome Home.
The last scene is in the tunnels at Cu Chi, a place that has been called the most devastated battlefield in the history of warfare.
To all of you, who served in all these endless wars, thank you for your service, and Welcome Home.
To those of you in active service, our prayers are with you.
History is our heritage. Knowing it impacts on our future. Not knowing it hampers our development.
We cannot teach "feel good" history, not "Pastology." It does us no good.
To understand and build our future, we must know our roots.
Our concern, as always, is with those at the front. Our prayers are with them all the time.
Questions are being raised, serious questions, about Iraq, its future, and our future there.
Summer started just a few days ago and the tv is filled with ads for the traditional forms of fun in the sun.
The daylight lasts longer; the barbecues are lit, the pools filled, the boats gased up. Well, for some of us. For others not so fortunate, the summer heat sizzles in the cities, old cars boil over.
And for over 160,000 of our women and men summer brings active service in combat areas. For some of them, summer never came.
Let us not forget them.
Our two missing soliders have been found - dead.
The "insurgency" continues.
The questions grow stronger.
My son came across this site and thought some of you might be interested:
Vietnam Database.
There are a few very special names in the world of the theater: Bette Davis, Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart and Kate Hepburn.
She was her own point man.
She blazed her own trail.
Her forthrightness, her honesty, her great talent will be so missed.
The search is still on for the missing WMD's.
Questions are being asked of the administration and of the Intelligence community while our troops are in place facing the insurgence.
It is truly a day to celebrate freedom!
It is a day to offer thanks and prayers for those who have given all to protect it.
It is a day to remember that now those who served, who are serving, deserve not only your thanks, but your active support.
With active commitments in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Balkans, intervention of US Troops is being considered in Liberia.
We are 227 years old as a country now.
It was said around the world that it couldn't be done. That representative government of the kind outlined could not work.
It works.
How well it works is up to the people and our involvement in its daily functioning.
What does the word PATRIOT mean to you?
Do you consider yourself a PATRIOT?
Is that a mind-set word or an action word to you?
During WWII, one of the signs of Patriotism was having a Victory Garden. From an old radio AD:
You can have vegetables lots of them on your table next winter.
You can have your own fresh vegetables on your table this summer, if you have
your own Victory Garden.
Yes, there's no restriction on home canning and home processing of vegetables and
garden fruits and berries.
Plan your Victory Garden now.
Get your garden plot lined up.
Get the advice of a garden expert if you need it and be prepared to Grow Your
Own for Victory.
Join a Garden Club or a Community Garden Movement, or share a garden with
your neighbor.
You can help win the battle of food production You can help our fighting men get
the food they need.
You can help save the vital metals used in commercial canning if You Grow Your
Own Your Own Victory Garden in 1943.
For further information write to :
Victory Gardens
Washington, D.C.
Victory Gardens
Washington, D.C.
If Patriotism is an action word, what acts of patriotism were counted as such by non-combatants during the wars in Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and the current engagements?
What support was/is given to the troops from the homefront?
What exactly does the word mean?
Consider too that those with whom one is engaged have their own definition of the word.
And while we are thinking about that one, can anyone come up with a workable definition of STATESMAN?
If you have some ideas about these words, write to me at FEEDBACK above and share them with us. If you want what you say posted, please so indicate that and how you would like it signed.
Once in awhile we come across a piece of writing that truly speaks to us; that truly 'says it like it is.'
Some of our most dearly treasured freedoms are those of Freedom Of Speech and Freedom of the Press.
Two of those so precious freedoms come together in the words of Al Martinez, columnist for the Los Angeles Times in an article we all would do well to read. Join the LA Times and Al
at Al Martinez:As Americans, we have the inherent right to disagree.
The costs of maintaining an American presence in Iraq continue to grow.
The troops will remain for the "foreseeable future."
Join the New York Times and THOM SHANKER at:Rumsfeld Doubles Estimate for Cost of Troops in Iraq.
The stories are out there about chemical tests on military personnel during the cold war.
For information on investigations concerning them visit the New York Times and Thom Shanker: Investigations of Chemicals Will Continue
By THOM SHANKER.
Despite the recent differences between the Bush Administration and the French, our two countries have a long, shared history. That is particularly evident here in Louisiana.
On July 14 the French celebrate Bastille Day.
Last year the Military Academy at West Point was decorated with the Legion of Honor for its service to France in WWI.
Senator Byrd refers to hearing the word "quagmire" coming up more and more frequently.
He expresses his opinion on the current situation in Iraq. I am wondering what opinions you have.
You may click on "FEEDBACK" and let me know if you wish.
From Alternet and Senator Byrd: We Must Ask the World for Help on Iraq By Sen. Robert Byrd July 11, 2003.
Monday morning I found a distress call from a Vietnam Vet living in a world of pain, alone.
I called the DVA for help. They were gracious, caring, and helpful giving me what I needed for him to get connected with help.
They are there for you.
In August, the 15th through the 19th, they have a convention here in New Orleans.
When I read Thom Shanker's article from the New York Times this morning, I got a definite feeling of dejavu.
Yearlong Tours an Option for 'Guerrilla' War in Iraq.
From the Washington Post and By Kevin Sullivan: 'Weekend Warriors' No More
National Guard's Expanded Role in Iraq Combines Risky Duties, Long Deployment.
As the days pass, as the reconstruction goes on, the numbers of losses of our troops increases.
The most recent from the 101: From the New York Times and KIRK SEMPLE 3 More U.S. Soldiers Killed in Iraq as Resistance Continue.
When we send people to a war zone individual faces get lost in the photos of collective troops.
The Times Picayune of New Orleans offers a Troop Tribute where you can submit a photo of your loved one on active duty.
For each of these photos there is an individual life,loved ones, hopes, and dreams. Our prayers are with each and everyone of you.
The Faces of our Troops.
The letters KIA indicate loss; a life ended, those close shattered. As the numbers climb, the grief swells and ripples.
The New York Times and Sarah Kershaw report the grief of the family of one Marine from Oregon who is not coming home. We all share their grief.
A Marine Is Killed in Iraq, and Grief Ripples at Home.
Sunday, July 27, 2003 brought us two landmarks.
We mourn the passing of Bob Hope whose USO shows brought hope into hell.
From the New York Times and the late Vincent Canby: Bob Hope, Comedic Master and Entertainer of Troops, Dies at 100.
Bob, thanks for the memories. Go with God.
It also marked the 50th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice.
Two questions:
Is there a Veterans' Memorial Park in your town?
What kind of condition is it in?
The US did not enter WWI until the spring of 1917. In January of that year, Woodrow Wilson made a proposal about the peace that would come at the end of the war.
The Versailles Treaty was a punitive peace and it can be said that the years between 1919 and 1939 were simply years of armistice. It is also being said, and I concur, that WWI did not have to happen. The First World War.
Can you even begin to imagine the course of the last century if it had not? That could provide you with some interesting What IF scenarios for writing.
We can learn from history if we choose to.
This link for a slide show was sent to me today.
It speaks for itself.
Remember the Blood of Heroes.
Live the questions now.
Rainer Maria Rilke
Each day the headlines rattle with angst, with fear, with anger, threats, counter threats, with negatives. A daily dose can leave you wondering, Has anything good, positive happened anywhere today? But if we stop to ask that question, we already know the answer is an affirmative. Yet how often do we hear of, or acknowledge the positive? the giving, the service rendered unconditionally?
In 2000, according to the USDA, 10.5% of US Households ( 20 million adults, and 13 million children) were "food insecure" because of a lack of resources.
Of these, the food insecurity of 3.3 million was enough to classify them as "hungry." 5.6 million adults and 2.7 million children lived in these hungry households.
Were you aware of that?
Are these "food insecure" people in your neighborhood?
How can you help?
Food Research Action Center.
Marilyn Knapp, webmistress of Tim O'Brien, Novelist
www.AuthorTimOBrien.com. notes that some areas and colleges are making The Things They Carried community reading.
Join Marilyn at Tim O'Brien, Novelist. for discussions of O'Brien's novels, short stories, appearances, etc. Those of you who know his work will enjoy the interviews, short stories, and biography. Those of you who do not yet know O'Brien's work will find some very interesting and important reading.
More and more areas and universities are beginning to take seriously the work of Vietnam writers and to treat their work as an integral part of American Literature. This appreciation of this body of work will help to lead to the long awaited Welcome Home.
Go to Tim O'Brien, Novelist. and learn about The Things They Carried.
Marines Deployed in Liberia. Remy Benoit
From the San Francisco Chronicle and Glenn McKenzie, Associated Press Writer: Seven-member Marine team deploys in Liberia's capital, marking first U.S. troops on ground
GLENN McKENZIE, Associated Press Writer.
For a history of Liberia: Liberian History.
August 7, 1942. Remy Benoit
A Guadalcanal Chronology 7 August 1942 - 6 March 1943.
Former Vice President Al Gore. Remy Benoit
The fundamentals of democracy include free speech and open debate. From Al Gore at MoveOn.org: Al Gore.
For who is supporting an independent commission on information concerning Iraq's weapons of mass destruction: Who's With Us?.
Intelligence and Iraq. Remy Benoit
The assessments, the commentaries continue on the potentiality of Iraqi weaponry.
From CIA Director Tenet and the Washington Post:Written Statement From CIA Director Tenet.
From Washington Post Writers Barton Gellman and Walter Pincus: Depiction of Threat Outgrew Supporting Evidence.
Thought for the Day. Remy Benoit
From Henry Beston:
One's first appreciation is a sense that the creation is still going on, that the creative forces are as great and as active today as they have ever been, and that tomorrow's morning will be as heroic as any of the world. Creation is here and now.
More Troops to Liberia. Remy Benoit
More US Troops to Liberia.
From the Washington Post and Bradley Graham: U.S. to Send 200 Troops To Liberia.
To learn about the operations of Navy Seals, visit: Naval Special Warfare Command.
Canadian Army Overseas in WWIII. Remy Benoit
Join Stan Scislowski, author of Not All of Us Were Brave, and his comrades at: Stan's Page: Reflections on Service With the Canadian Army Overseas. for an interesting and wonderfully presented account of the service of Canadians in World War II.
Propsed budget cuts for those in active combat and their families???.
Veterans for Common Sense.
From Veterans for Common Sense.
VCS Action Alert: Administration to cut pay for combat troops
Charles Sheehan-Miles.
All is NOT quiet on the Afghanistan Front. Remy Benoit
We have 8,500 US Forces in Afghanistan on active duty.
From the Times Picayune of New Orleans and the AP Press: Afghan insurgents fight police; 22 killed.
Vacation? Maybe, maybe not. Remy Benoit
Join Joe Robinson of Alternet.org for : Vacation Starvation.
How We Cope In Times of Stress. Remy Benoit
I came upon an interesting article in the Washington Post this morning by Jackie Spinner about "Flash Mobs."
I recall "Be-Ins," "Sit-Ins," massive protests and demonstrations.
Flash Mobs seem to be a new twist, a new way of expressing stress, societal fragmentation.
Death and Transition to Peace. Remy Benoit
From the New Orleans Times - Picayune this morning two stories reach out to us.
New Orleans buries Staff Sgt. Taft Virgil Williams its first casualty of the Iraqi war: Farewell Salute
by Tara Young.
And a story about Navy Lt. Cmdr. José Lavastida, a Navy Chaplin trying to help the soldiers make a peaceful transition to peace and home: Spiritual Oasis by James Varney.
Veterans Administration.
From Veterans for Common Sense, a letter from VA Head to employees: VA Secretary Promises to Care for Recently Wounded War Veterans Anthony Principi
Department of Veterans Affairs.
Anniversary of the Liberation of Paris. Remy Benoit
For a history of the Liberation of Paris go to:
Liberation of Paris.
The Last Weekend of Summer: Labor Day Weekend. Remy Benoit
School is already in session here. If it is not where you are, it will be next week.
Businesses are already gearing up for their Labor Day Sales.
But how many of us are aware of what Labor Day means?
The history of labor making gains for workers in this country is full of strife, often overt violence, and much heartache.
So, while you are grilling the burgers and dogs, toasting the marshmallows, give some thought to those who fought so long and hard so you were not working 7 days a week for $3.50.
The Writing Life: A Personal Note. Remy Benoit
Some folks have a romanticized view of "the writing life," perhaps seeing it as inspirational walks through rose gardens (well, yes, sometimes); as visits to old plantation houses ( those too, sometimes); as quiet, solitude, words flowing and heart glowing. Well, that too, sometimes.
There is the old view of the writer, banging away at a manual typewriter in the "wee small hours of the morning," cigarette, booze balanced so the keys can be hit.
Ukrainians and Poles replace the 3d Battalion, 23rd Marines in Iraq.
From James Varney and The Times Picayune of New Orleans: Change of Command.
Tropic Lightning News. Remy Benoit
Join at: Kirk Ramsey. for remembrances of his time in Vietnam, Tales of a War Far Away; for his 2/14 Vet Finder; for the wonderful pencil drawings he shares with us; for issues of Tropic Lightning News; and so much more.
If you have copies of Tropic Lightning News that he has not found yet, do help out and let him know. You too can share and help fill in the missing issues.
How is US Labor doing on Labor Day. Remy Benoit
These are the stats from the US Labor Force on unemployment this summer: United States Labor Force Statistics Seasonally Adjusted (in thousands) 1978 - Present.
Attacks on US Personnel Rising in Iraq . Remy Benoit
Despite the war being declared officially ended in May, attacks on US personnel are on the rise in Iraq.
Join the Washington Post at:
Report: Attacks on U.S. Personnel in Iraq Rising By Vernon LoebWashington Post Staff Writer
Tuesday, September 2, 2003; 10:18 AM.
Number of Wounded in Action on Rise
Iraq Toll Reflects Medical Advances, Resistance Troops Face By Vernon Loeb Washington Post Staff Writer Tuesday, September 2, 2003; Page A01.
Bush Seeks Larger UN role in Iraq. Remy Benoit
From the Washington Post: U.S. Wants Larger U.N. Role in Iraq
More Peacekeeping Forces to Be Sought By Mike Allen and Vernon Loeb Washington Post Staff Writers Wednesday, September 3, 2003; Page A01.
Registered to Vote?. Remy Benoit
"Whatever America hopes to bring to pass in the world must first come to pass in the heart of America."
The cornerstone of our system of government is the franchise.
Thousands of years of history went into the idea of voting.
If you need to register: Voter Registration.
You don't even have to leave home to do it!
Expected request for more funding for Iraq. Remy Benoit
From the Washington Post:
Hill Braces For Iraq Request Lawmakers Want Details From Bush By Mike Allen and Thomas E. Ricks
Washington Post Staff Writers
Friday, September 5, 2003; Page A01.
and from David Ignatius of the Post:
Letting Iraq Save Itself By David Ignatius
Friday, September 5, 2003; Page A21.
Those Who Serve. Remy Benoit
What is wrong with this word picture? This is the reality for our Veterans.
From the New Orleans Times Picayune:
Veterans may lose benefits battle VA funding unlikely to restore cut services Saturday September 06, 2003 By Bruce Alpert Washington bureau.
Down history lane ( and be advised General Patton used strong language):General George S. Patton's Speech to the Third Army - the Unabridged Edition Somewhere in England June 5th, 1944.
A "Marine's Marine" General Ray Davis.
From the Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Warriors remember Ray Davis By TY TAGAMI.
Bush Speech, September 7, 2003.
President Bush.
For reactions to speech:
From Nebraska and the Star-Journal:
Nebraska delegation has mixed reaction to Bush address.
From Virginia the AP Press and the Virgina Pilot:
Bush Seeks $87B in Anti-Terror Funds By TERENCE HUNT
AP White House Correspondent.
From The Manchester Guardian:
Fear of $80bn Iraq bill moves Bush to address nation
Rory McCarthy in Baghdad, Duncan Campbell in Los Angeles and Richard Norton-Taylor Monday September 8, 2003.
National PTA. Remy Benoit
With school back in session, here is a link that can prove valuable to parents: National PTA.
International Day of Peace September 21. Remy Benoit
A United Nations resolution in 1981 established the International Day of Peace.
It was first celebrated September 1982.
For information on how you can take part: International Day of Peace.
Voices from Abroad.
From the BBC and Frank Gardner
BBC security correspondent: Is the US winning its war on terror?.
From Australia, the Sydney Morning Herald and Christopher Kremmer and staff reporters try to make sense of the Iraq conflict: The unanswered questions.
My Name is Peace. Remy Benoit
Let us all, all over the world, reflect on this terrible anniversary.
It has been said that we will be judged by the world we leave our children, and grandchildren.
Like all else, we have choice in that too.
Let us learn from our history on the planet so that we may buid a future.
But I am just one person, what can I do?. Remy Benoit
Each journey starts with the first step.
To do this, you don't have to move anything but your finger on your mouse: The Hunger Site.
From there just follow that still small voice within.
Alerts and Vigils.
From CNN online:
U.S. issues terror alert on 9/11.
Vigils mark 9/11 anniversary.
What Has Changed?. John Hathaway
The buildings are still torn asunder, though the rubble’s been cleared away.
The emptiness still echoes with the screams of witnesses, and those that fell on that sad day.
Apprehension is still very much alive, though familiar, it’s like carrying a pocket of sand;
barely noticeable, out of sight, but then some seeps out, and we’re made aware all over again.
Have our hearts changed? Have our souls’ eyes been opened to the suffering everywhere?
Have our habits changed? Have we finally learned to listen with our spirits and care?
Do we still cherish the laughter of our little ones, hold them closer and tight to our chest?
Have we learned to pray peace for everyone, ask for the ending of all unrest?
Are You Aware That..... Remy Benoit
5.9 million US mothers with very young or school age children do not have health insurance?
Millions of mothers lack health insurance coverage in the United States. Most uninsured mothers lack access both to employer-based coverage and to publicly subsidized health insurance.Guyer J, Broaddus M, Dude A.
Medical -- Hepatitis C Information Hepatitis C, a blood-borne virus, is now appearing in an alarming number of Vietnam vets after lying dormant for years. By Allison Wright Reprinted from the VFW Magazine, June 1999.
Kinda hard to swallow: Billing Wounded GI's for meals in hospitals. Remy Benoit
I came across this article in Stars and Stripes.
What are your reactions to this?
If you would like, send them to me and I will post here. Please remember that this site is for all age groups. A lot of school age children visit, so speak your piece with that in mind.
Congressman: Wounded troops shouldn't be billed for hospital meals
By Sandra Jontz, Stars and Stripes
European edition, Friday, September 12, 2003.
I am also sending e-mails to the leading potentials for presidential candidacy, asking for their reactions to this to be sent here.
Feedback. Remy Benoit
On the subject of charging soldiers for meals in hospitals.
$87 Billion. Remy Benoit
$87 Billion is a lot of money.
There is already much heated debate over this figure.
But for the average Jane and Joe, it is a number that is hard to comprehend.
If your home cost $100,000 that leaves $869,999,900. To get a handle on the number, put it in your calculator, subtract you annual costs, educating your children, and your pension figures. Round off a possible number for health care as you age and subtract that too.
Is the number still to high to grasp in family terms?
Then visit TomPaine.com for What $87 Billion Can Buy from The Center for American Progress is a nonpartisan research and educational institute based in Washington, D.C.
and WorkingforChange.com for:Russell Mokhiber CommonDreams.org
09.12.03 Other things you might do with $87 billion A dollar doesn't go as far as it used to -- but 87,000,000,000 of them do.
And I ask the question again, Why are our combat soldiers asked to pay for meals in hospitals? Yes, they have a subsistence allowance for meals normally, but isn't a combat injury an abnormal situation?
Let's here from you, and the potential candidates.
Wounded in Iraq, Deserted at Home
By Bill Berkowitz, WorkingForChange.com
September 12, 2003.
Which Way Does the Wind Blow?. Remy Benoit
Hurricane Isabel seemss to be headed for the North Carolina coast. Her winds have diminished to
115 mph but she is not just a lady coming to call.
If you are in the projected path, do take all precautions. Our prayers are with you.
Projected Path of Isabel.
There are also political winds blowing this morning. I got an e-mail asking me to vote yes or no on the possibility of Hilary Clinton for President. Do you have an opinion on that?
Remember That Pay Cut? Combat Pay for Soldiers in Iraq Expires September 30 Liam M. Truchard Springfield News-Leader (Missouri).
Which ever way the "winds" blow, we share the planet.
Visit with our co-habitors at:
World Wildlife Fund. They have some lovely free e-cards for you.
The Rainforest Site. Each click at the site saves
11.4 square feet of endangered rainforest.
Global Wildlife Center.
Another Hat in the Ring and this one with 4 stars. Remy Benoit
It is campaign time again.
With 8 Democrats already seeking the nomination, the retired general from Arkansas is to throw his hat in the ring today.
Clark Will Announce Run for Presidency
Retired General Joins 9 Democrats in Race
By Jim VandeHei Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, September 17, 2003; Page A01.
For information on the other candidates, check out the side bar on the page.
General to the Rescue? By Howard Kurtz Washington Post Staff Writer Wednesday, September 17, 2003; 8:55 AM.